Egypt's Rania Al-Mashat officially assumed her duties on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026, as United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), following an official reception at the commission's headquarters in Beirut.
Al-Mashat said ESCWA would focus on supporting member states in advancing inclusive development, strengthening regional integration, expanding cooperation, and building partnerships with regional and international organizations as well as research institutions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced her appointment in April. She takes office at a time of heightened economic challenges in the Middle East, including the impact of regional conflicts on energy markets, trade and supply chains. A former Egyptian minister of tourism, international cooperation, and planning and economic development, Al-Mashat brings more than 25 years of experience in economic policymaking, sustainable development and multilateral cooperation.
She will lead ESCWA's efforts to support economic and digital transformation and promote regional cooperation among Arab states. Egypt advises citizens to postpone travel to Ebola-hit regions amid global alert Egypt advises citizens to postpone travel to Ebola-hit regions amid global alert